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Garlic Butter Pan-Seared Halibut Recipe

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3.9 from 9 reviews

A quick and delicious garlic butter pan-seared halibut recipe that delivers tender, flavorful fish fillets with a bright lemon and fresh rosemary garnish. Perfect for a healthy, impressive meal in just 13 minutes.

Ingredients

Fish and Seasoning

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 halibut fish fillets
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Garlic Butter Sauce

  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tbsp garlic clove, minced
  • ½ lemon, juiced (about 1 tablespoon)
  • 1 tbsp fresh chopped rosemary for garnish

Instructions

  1. Heat and Season: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Pat the halibut fillets dry with a paper towel, then season thoroughly with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper on all sides.
  2. Sear the Halibut: Place the seasoned fillets in a large (10-inch) cast iron skillet, reduce heat to medium, and sear the fish for 3-4 minutes on one side. Flip to the other side and cook until done, then set the fillets aside.
  3. Prepare Garlic Butter Sauce: Lower the heat to low and add unsalted butter to the skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook carefully for 30 seconds to 1 minute to avoid burning the garlic. Squeeze in the lemon juice and stir the sauce quickly.
  4. Baste and Garnish: Return the cooked halibut fillets to the pan and spoon the garlic butter sauce over each one, tilting the pan to pool the sauce. Garnish generously with fresh chopped rosemary before serving.

Notes

  • Patting the fish dry ensures better searing and prevents steaming.
  • Use fresh garlic and watch it closely to prevent burning for best flavor.
  • Adjust seasoning to your taste preference, especially salt and pepper.
  • Serve immediately for optimal texture and flavor.